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2 escape capture after leading authorities on a chase on I-70 in stolen truck

The driver of a stolen truck led authorities on a chase Friday through Topeka on I-70 before exiting at Valencia Road and going north. The driver and another occupant escaped apprehension. (Google Maps)

Two people escaped capture Friday after the driver of a stolen pickup truck led authorities on a chase through parts of Topeka, a Shawnee County Sheriff’s official said.

At 4:36 p.m. Friday, a Shawnee County Sheriff’s deputy attempted to stop a stolen black 2003 Ford pickup on US-75 highway at Interstate 70, Cpl. Jesse Foster said in a news release.

The driver of the vehicle failed to stop for the deputy and initiated a pursuit westbound on I-70.

The vehicle continued westbound on I-70 to N.W. Valencia Road, just west of Topeka, where it exited the interstate and traveled north.

Foster in the news release said the vehicle continued on several gravel roads north of I-70 before the driver abandoned the vehicle in the 300 block of N.W. West Union Road, and both occupants ran on foot.

The occupants weren’t located after an extensive search of the area by sheriff’s deputies, K-9s, Kansas Highway Patrol troops and KHP aircraft.

The drive of the truck is described as a white man wearing a black T-shirt and blue jeans. The passenger is a white woman wearing a black T-shirt and a black and white skirt.

The sheriff’s office asks the public to not approach the individuals if they are spotted and to call 911.